Satellite TV Review: Comparing DIRECTV and DISH Network

Overview

In the world of satellite TV, two giants dominate the market: DISH Network and DIRECTV. This review delves into their offerings, comparing channels, pricing, equipment, and customer service to help you make an informed decision.

Channel Lineup

Total Channels

• DISH Network: Offers a staggering 350 channels.
• DIRECTV: Provides 250 channels.

Programming Variety

Both providers offer a wide range of programming, including:

• Movies: Both have extensive movie channels.
• Sports: DIRECTV excels with the most sports packages.
• Music: DISH Network offers 52 commercial-free music channels and 60 Sirius satellite radio channels, while DIRECTV provides 67 XM satellite radio channels.
• International: DISH Network leads with 21 international channels, compared to DIRECTV's 11.

Pricing

Basic Packages

• DISH Network: The DishFamily Pak starts at $19.99 per month.
• DIRECTV: The lowest-priced package is $41.99 per month.

Premium Packages

• DISH Network: The top-tier package with 350 channels costs $74.99 per month.
• DIRECTV: The premium package with 250 channels is priced at $96.99 per month.

Equipment and Installation

Free Equipment

Both providers offer free equipment, including a dish and up to four receivers, with free installation when you subscribe to their programming packages. However, DIRECTV charges a $19.99 shipping fee.

DVRs

• DISH Network: Provides a free DVR with service.
• DIRECTV: Offers a free DVR after a $99 mail-in rebate.

HD Receivers

• DISH Network: Free HD receivers.
• DIRECTV: Free HD receivers after a $99 mail-in rebate.

Local Channels

• DISH Network: Charges $3.00 per month for local channels.
• DIRECTV: Charges $5.00 per month for local channels.

International Channels

DISH Network

Offers 21 international channels, including:

• African
• Arabic
• Armenian
• Caribbean
• Chinese
• Farsi
• French
• German
• Greek
• Israeli
• Italian
• Japanese
• Korean
• Polish
• Portuguese
• Russian
• South Asian
• Spanish
• Tagalog
• Ukrainian
• Urdu

DIRECTV

Provides 11 international channels, including:

• Caribbean
• Chinese
• Korean
• Filipino
• Italian
• South Asian
• Russian
• Spanish
• Tagalog
• Ukrainian
• Vietnamese

Customer Service

Both DIRECTV and DISH Network offer 24/7 online and toll-free telephone customer service, ensuring you have support whenever you need it.

Interesting Stats

• Market Share: As of 2021, DIRECTV holds approximately 14.6 million subscribers, while DISH Network has around 8.4 million subscribers (source).
• Customer Satisfaction: According to the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI), DISH Network scored 70 out of 100 in 2021, while DIRECTV scored 66 (source).

Conclusion

Choosing between DIRECTV and DISH Network depends on your specific needs. If you prioritize a vast array of channels and lower pricing, DISH Network might be the better option. However, if sports packages and a broader selection of music channels are your priority, DIRECTV could be the way to go. Both providers offer competitive services, so consider your preferences and budget when making your decision.

For more detailed comparisons and the latest updates, visit DIRECTV and DISH Network.